On Nov. 7, 2023, the NMI judiciary held its first Family Court night session in the Guma’ Hustisia, Courtroom 217 with Associate Judge Teresa K. Kim-Tenorio presiding. From back left: Law Clerk James Hallisey, Associate Judge Teresa K. Kim-Tenorio and Deputy Clerk I Gregorio Tudela. From front left: Acting Family Court Manager Roxanne Torres, Attorney Janet King, Deputy Marshal III Roemar Segotier, Assistant Attorney General Tom Schweiger, and Division of Youth Services Caseworker Christine Aldan.
Deputy Clerk I Gregorio Tudela, Acting Family Court Manager Roxanne Torres, Associate Judge Teresa K. Kim-Tenorio, Deputy Marshal I Maria Tudela, Judicial Assistant Sabrina Dela Cruz, Law Clerk James Hallisey, Special Assistant to the Presiding Judge Janina Maratita, and Deputy Marshal III Roemar Segotier.
ON Tuesday, Nov. 7, 2023, the Family Court held its first night session. Starting at 5 p.m., Associate Judge Teresa Kim-Tenorio heard more than 10 cases, most involving child support matters.
Consistent employment is important for making regular child support payments. In the past, frequent court appearances often led to reduced hours and clashed with work schedules, creating challenges for separated parents supporting their children. The Family Court’s night sessions aim to address and resolve this conflict, providing a more accessible and convenient way for parents to fulfill their responsibilities without compromising work commitments.
“I am happy to see a successful implementation of the Family Court’s first night session. One of the judiciary’s goals is to ensure access to justice. This is a major step towards that goal,” said Chief Justice Alexandro C. Castro.
“The judiciary is grateful to the Family Court and Judge Teresa Kim-Tenorio for starting this program,” said Presiding Judge Roberto C. Naraja. “It will help the community, especially our hard-working parents.”
The court will hold its next night session on Tuesday, Dec. 12, 2023 at 5 p.m. The after-hours docket will continue on every month’s first or second Tuesday. Employed parties in child support matters are encouraged to ask about appearing in the next night session.
Contact the Family Court at (670) 236-9840 or fcd@nmijudiciary.gov for more information/.
